How should a nurse handle self-disclosure during a client session?

In a therapeutic setting, the primary focus should always remain on the client's thoughts, feelings, and experiences. When a nurse chooses to refocus on the client's experience quickly after a brief moment of self-disclosure, it serves to validate the client's feelings while preventing the session from diverting into the nurse's personal experiences. This approach fosters a safe environment where the client feels heard and understood, emphasizing the therapeutic relationship rather than shifting attention to the nurse's own life.

It’s important for nurses to be mindful of the potential impacts of self-disclosure. While sharing a relevant personal experience may help build rapport in some cases, it is crucial that the nurse maintains the therapeutic boundary. By refocusing quickly, the nurse directs the conversation back to the client’s needs, thereby reinforcing the therapeutic goals of the session. This balance allows for a moment of connection while ensuring that the client's healing process remains at the forefront of interaction.